What to do after a dog bite with rabies? - briefly
If you or someone else has been bitten by a dog suspected of having rabies, immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water. Seek medical attention promptly for post-exposure prophylaxis, which may include vaccination and immunoglobulin administration.
What to do after a dog bite with rabies? - in detail
If you or someone else has been bitten by a dog suspected of having rabies, immediate action is crucial to prevent the development of this fatal disease. Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, but it can be prevented if treated promptly after exposure. Here are the detailed steps to take:
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Clean the Wound Thoroughly: As soon as possible, wash the bite area gently with soap and warm water for at least 15 minutes. This will help remove any saliva from the dog, which may contain the rabies virus. Do not scrub the wound, as this could cause further damage to the tissue.
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Do Not Apply Disinfectant or Alcohol: Avoid using hydrogen peroxide, iodine, or alcohol on the wound, as these substances can damage tissue and may reduce the effectiveness of any vaccine you might receive later.
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Seek Medical Attention Immediately: After cleaning the wound, go to a healthcare facility immediately for further evaluation and treatment. Inform the medical staff about the bite and the possibility of rabies exposure. They will assess the risk based on the type of animal, its behavior, and local rabies trends.
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Rabies Vaccination: If the dog is known to be rabid or if the risk of rabies transmission is high, your healthcare provider may recommend a series of rabies vaccinations (post-exposure prophylaxis). This typically involves four doses of vaccine given over a period of 14 days. The first dose should be administered as soon as possible after the bite, ideally within 24 hours.
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Rabies Immunoglobulin (RIG): For individuals who have not been previously vaccinated against rabies, your healthcare provider may also recommend an injection of Rabies Immunoglobulin (RIG) in addition to the vaccine. RIG is a passive antibody that provides immediate protection until the body can produce its own antibodies through vaccination.
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Monitor for Symptoms: Even with prompt treatment, it's important to monitor for any signs of rabies infection over the following weeks and months. Common symptoms include fever, headache, weakness, and discomfort or a prickling or burning sensation at the site of the bite. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
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Report the Incident: Inform local health authorities about the dog bite incident. They can help determine if the dog is infected and take appropriate action to prevent further exposure.
By following these steps promptly after a suspected rabies exposure, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing this deadly disease. Always remember that prevention and early treatment are key in managing rabies.